Like an Old Shoe

For any readers of this blog who aren't already aware of it, I started a new job, working in the Duluth/Superior area, about a month ago. There is a thriving railfan community in that area, and I have felt very welcome. "Guided Tours" of a few areas have already taken place, with more in the offing. It's exciting seeing places in person that have only existed in photos for me until now.

The best part is getting to know some of the fans in that area. I've long felt that getting to know fellow railfans is the high point of the hobby and so far the Twin Ports have reinforced that belief.

However, the area I called home for 8 years still has a strong hold on me. Commuting back to Wadena on weekends has allowed me to stay in touch with that area. On my way home Friday evening, I caught an empty coal train between Staples and Aldrich. Racing along at highway speed allowed me a short lead by the time I reached Verndale. It only seemed right to stop for a shot at one of my favorite photo locations-the Verndale Sag.


The combination of nice evening light, a familiar coal train behind a pair of MAC's, and a well known location sure combined to make me feel "at home". It's just a matter of time before the Twin Ports are able to provided the same level of comfort. I look forward to it.

Wednesdays with Dan (This one is Late)

This is one of those posts that somehow slip through the cracks. Getting out along the tracks with Dan last night reminded me this was in the hopper so thought it would good to share it.

Way back on August 8 (seems like an eternity ago to me) something inspired me to do a little investigation of the downtown Superior area and sure enough I was able to locate the depot.


Since I was halfway to Minnesota already, it seemed only proper to finish the journey and see what was brewing down by the paper mill. In the dim recesses of my memory it seems I was chasing after one transfer or another and finding out just how quickly the can make it across the bay compared to me when I have no idea where I'm going. So I tried to make the best of it and shot some sugar stone.


Blundering along the interstate, I spied yet another limestone train, this time tucked down along the ore dock. A little exploring and I had this view:


If memory serves, just after that shot I retreated back to Wisconsin to meet up with Dan. After I told him about the CN limestone train, he led me to the proper location for a shot.


Oh, and he shot the train himself.


Last stop was CP Rices Point, where the traditional pair of GP's was shuttling cars in and out of the port, offering opportunities for some shots.


I believe after that shot we retreated to the depot where I had the chance to get to know some of the Great Model Railroaders of the Twin Ports (GMRTP for short-rumor has it the pronunciation is something like "Gomertop"). Anyway, thanks to everyone for the warm welcome and putting up with my incessant questions.